The harsh realities of street life spare no creature, including cats like Frisbee, who endured years of neglect before his rescue. His condition was dire when the Lowell TNR Coalition found him—his fur tangled and dirty, clearly illustrating the struggles he faced surviving alone.
Frisbee’s luck began to change when he was brought to the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society in Salisbury, Massachusetts. The shelter staff knew they faced a tough challenge in restoring his health. As detailed by Love Meow, they described his initial state as one of the worst they’d encountered: “He was originally found outside, severely matted and very hungry. Captured as part of a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program, he proved to be friendly despite his condition.”
The veterinary team spent hours meticulously shaving his matted fur, during which Frisbee was under anesthesia. Upon waking, his first actions were to purr, a sign of relief from the burdens he had carried for so long. However, his recovery journey was far from over, as he needed extensive dental care due to severe decay and infection in his mouth, leading to the removal of his remaining teeth and ongoing treatment for chronic stomatitis.
Despite testing positive for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), the shelter was committed to ensuring Frisbee’s well-being. They understood that FIV wasn’t a death sentence and believed he deserved a chance at a happy life. “Many rescue groups might have hesitated due to his complex medical needs, but we were determined to care for him until he could be adopted,” they stated.
Frisbee’s strong personality shone through his recovery, earning him the nickname of an “alpha cat,” likely to thrive among other cats. This characteristic was key in catching the eye of Donna Atkins, who was searching for a new member to add to her pet family. Upon seeing Frisbee’s profile online, she felt compelled to meet him, driving 90 minutes to the shelter. “It was love at first sight,” Donna recalled, and soon after, Frisbee, now affectionately called Buffy Boy, was heading to his new home.
Frisbee quickly bonded with Donna’s other cat, Baby Cat, and the two formed a fast friendship. Donna now frequently shares updates and photos of her thriving pets, showcasing their strong bond and joyful lives together.
The Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society celebrates Frisbee’s transformation and the joy he has found in his forever home. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the difference compassion and dedicated care can make in the lives of neglected animals, transforming despair into love and happiness.
